You may be on to something. Once the accusations were launched, a franchise plummeted into the depths of despair, changing staff and players to no avail, and could not stop a downward spiral until they lost the modicum of respect they previously enjoyed, even among their most die-hard fans, and became the laughing-stock for the rest of the league. So yes, there is a curse.

Meanwhile, the Pats continue to make the playoffs and are always in the game for another Superbowl and Championship.